Founder of Global Charity Delivers Impactful Workshop on Gender-Based Violence

Following a recent donation of personal safety alarms for students, young people at Lincoln College were given the opportunity to take part in a powerful and compassionate workshop addressing the sensitive issue of gender-based violence. 

Jane Houng, founder of the global charity Becky’s Button, delivered the workshop with warmth, integrity, and deep purpose. The initiative, created in loving memory of her daughter Becky, is committed to raising awareness of gender-based violence and equipping young people with the tools to recognise, respond to, and help prevent it—both online and in real life. 

Jane Houng said: "It's been great to tour the College today and to hear from the safeguarding teams about the challenges they face. It's also been great to speak to the staff at the Drill to hear about their campaigns, including keeping women safe at gigs. 

“Becky was the last of 114 British women killed by a man in 2017. In 2020, a woman or girl was killed by someone in their family every eleven minutes somewhere in the world. My heart goes out to their family and friends, to anyone who loses a loved one due to violence. What can we do to make the world a safer place? My focus is on empowering very vulnerable women, enabling them to protect themselves better, and getting their voices heard. Let’s take action together!"* 

The workshops held on campus invited teenage students into a safe, open environment where they could learn, reflect, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Through personal storytelling and practical guidance, Jane helped participants understand the realities of gender-based violence, how it can present itself in everyday situations, and - most importantly - how to stay safe and support others. 

Jane was joined by Becky’s Button trustee and long-time supporter Mike Lindup, keyboardist and founding member of the band Level 42. Mike also took the opportunity to meet with Performing Arts and Music students during his visit. 

Mike Lindup said: "I'm here today with Jane as I'm a trustee of Becky’s Button, and we're encouraging the conversation around gender-based violence. We've had a tour around the College today and it's the most wonderful place. We really hope the message gets out there and that it could perhaps be something that gets taken on amongst the student community here." 

Sam Rees, Head of Student Services at Lincoln College, said: "We are proud to welcome the Becky’s Button team to Lincoln College. While the origins of the charity are deeply tragic, it is incredibly moving to see Jane transform her daughter’s story into a powerful force for change - one that is already making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students." 

Becky’s Button continues to honour Becky’s memory by empowering young people with knowledge, courage, and hope. Jane’s work ensures that her daughter’s story brings about lasting change - encouraging a culture of kindness, awareness, and safety for the next generation 

To learn more about the charity’s work or to support its mission, please visit beckysbutton.org.